Kaya Ajaratu is a uniquely trained commando and spy. Soldiers like her were taken from their homes, then tortured and trained to gain their powers. Their mission is to hunt for the leader of the Izibi Resistance, but they soon learn that their enemy is children and the poor.
When her hovercraft crashes, Kaya comes across a child soldier and his guardian. Forced to explore her past, Kaya remembers that she, too, was once a child and needed guidance and protection. Even though she's warned against seeing her future, Kaya learns the peril her world is in and that children like her are the only ones who can defend it.
Now a deserter, Kaya gathers the nine children at the center of future events and makes the long, treacherous journey to get off-world. Their planet is filled with ancient enemies, hidden dangers, and powerful, mystical beings all vying for the same prize; to control the destiny of their world.
Tameka, the woman who turned Kaya into the army's mindless killing machine, infiltrates minds and sows distrust.
The Chombo Man, a ruthless spirit, imprisons teenagers in his occult-like gang.
Through it all, some kids fall victim to the war, the streets, and their former lives.
Kaya fights to get her children through the pitfalls of their society, all while shaping the future into what she believes will help save it.
